Today nearly everyone has an opinion on how everything could be made better. Thanks to our 24 x 7 news media, some of those opinions are even moderately well-informed. We have thoughts on how to improve the government, reduce global warming, and end the war in Iraq. Closer to home, many people I know have thoughts and ideas a plenty on how to improve zoning, manage the town budget or handle local homelessness.

What I always wonder is: What does everyone do with all these wonderful ideas?

If everyone acted on all the great insights they had, surely we’d be making more progress than we are.  Everybody occasionally plays “armchair quarterback.” Hey, we’re only human and it can be enjoyable to play ‘what if’ and theorize about how things would be better if only “the people in power” thought as clearly as we do.

The kick is – we have way more power than we think -- but we don’t always use it. If we put our thoughts into action, even in a small way, we could really influence how things around us turn out. I am always impressed and amazed when I read about the impact of letter-writing, grass-roots charitable campaigns, and the incredible possibility of individual accomplishments when one person is compelled to make a positive change in the world.

At this time of year, when we’re filled with self-contemplation and the thoughts of New Year’s resolutions; I invite you to listen to yourself and to hear the ideas you put forth and the causes that concern you. You don’t have to tackle world hunger, but think about what you might actually do to act upon your thoughts. Whether it’s a donation, volunteering some time, writing a letter to the editor, joining an organization or rallying some friends in support – I invite you to transform your words and thoughts into actions. I bet you’ll be glad you did!

They say the road to hell is paved with good intentions. I wonder where the road with good intentions and actions goes?  I bet it takes us somewhere wonderful. Let’s find out together.

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